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In 2010, the Supreme Court decided to stop permitting attorneys and other visitors from entering through the front door. Instead everyone would have to enter through a side door. Justice Breyer (and Justice Ginsburg concurring) issued a statement voicing disappointment with the decision.

Justice Breyer explained the original architectural plan for the building: “[Architect Cass] Gilbert’s solution was to design an entrance that, in the words of architect and lawyer Paul Byard, “emphasiz[ed] the processional progress toward justice reenacted daily in [the Court’s] premises.”

Further, “To many members of the public, this Court’s main entrance and front steps are not only a means to, but also a metaphor for, access to the Court itself.” You can read more here.